Hungarian Goulash Recipe
This rich, slow-simmered stew is inspired by traditional Goulash, a beloved comfort food from Hungary. Deeply flavored with sweet paprika, tender beef, and aromatic spices, it’s perfect served with crusty bread, dumplings, or buttered noodles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Goulash Base
4 tablespoons olive oil
2½ pounds stewing beef (lean, 1-inch pieces)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
For Aromatics
2 large onions, roughly chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
For Spices
3 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3 bay leaves
For Sweetness and Tang
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
For Broth
4 cups beef broth (no salt added)
For Garnish
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Season beef with salt and pepper.
Brown in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing all sides.
Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add onions and cook until softened and lightly golden (about 8–10 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Spices
Reduce heat slightly and stir in paprika, caraway, oregano, and bay leaves.
Stir constantly for about 30 seconds (do not let paprika burn).
4. Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato sauce, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar.
Return beef to the pot.
Pour in beef broth and stir to combine.
5. Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender and sauce has thickened.
6. Finish & Serve
Remove bay leaves.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Find it online: https://epichistorian.com/hungarian-goulash-recipe/